Hubbardston #25: Central MA’s Best Communities

#25th ranked Hubbardston is known for its abundance of outdoor recreational activities and the high quality of life its residents enjoy. The town has numerous opportunities for residents to enjoy the outdoors, including the Hubbardston Skateboard Park and the Curtis Recreation Field.

Beginning in the 19th century, Hubbardston's economy was powered largely by dairy and berry farming, along with small scale chair, boot and shoe manufacturing. Today, the town is largely inhabited by professionals, however, with over 40 percent of the town's population in either the management, business or professional fields.

At the top end of the list, Hubbardston is 4th in affordability and 14th in economic condition, but it ranks 62nd for restaurants and 59th for arts and culture.

Hubbardston, settled in 1734 and incorporated in 1775, took an active role in the various patriotic fights. Hubbardston residents helping to lead Shays' Rebellion against an overbearing government and sent troops to both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. It remained a mostly agrarian town, attracting immigrants from throughout Western Europe and Canada to work on the farms. Small industry developed but it was limited.